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Books matching: dark quest narrative

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  1. #1

    Inhibitor Phase - Revelation Space by Alastair Reynolds
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    Inhibitor Phase is a standalone novel in the Revelation Space Universe that follows a quest for magic weapons to fight against the Wolves, a malevolent alien creation, in a universe filled with Inhibitors set to eliminate advanced civilizations. The story revolves around a ruthless band on an impossible mission, facing brutal gangs, horrific situations, and mind-bending scenarios across various planets and star systems, all while maintaining a sense of hope and determination.

    The book skillfully weaves together new and old characters, introducing 'new' characters and reviving old ones, with well-drawn and believable personalities whose fates become important to the reader. The narrative is filled with actual and speculative science, intricate world-building, and a granular explanation of far future technology, keeping the readers engaged and interested throughout the story.


    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Revelation Space )

  2. #2

    The Hounds of the Morrigan by Pat O'Shea
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    The Hounds of the Morrigan by Pat O'Shea is a fantastical tale set in the world of Celtic mythology, where two siblings, Pidge and Brigit, find themselves on a magical adventure filled with mythical creatures and ancient legends. The story follows their quest to prevent the trinity of war goddesses, the Morrigan, from obtaining a powerful stone that could unleash chaos upon the world. As they navigate through a Faerie mirror of the Irish countryside, encountering magical beings and facing the hounds of the goddess, the siblings must use their innocence and bravery to outwit the forces of darkness.

    Pat O'Shea weaves a rich and enchanting narrative that captures the essence of Irish folklore and mythology, creating a story that is both captivating for younger readers and engaging for adults. The book is filled with humor, suspense, and heartwarming moments, making it a timeless tale that explores themes of good versus evil, courage, and the power of family bonds.

    AFTER making sure that the shopping for Auntie Bina and his folded jacket were safely stowed in the saddle-bag, Pidge wheeled his bike through the crowded streets. The day was unpleasantly hot. People...

  3. #3

    Summer in Orcus by T. Kingfisher
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    Summer in Orcus is a fantastic portal fantasy where a young girl named Summer is offered a chance for her heart's desire by Baba Yaga, leading her to a journey in the world of Orcus. The book explores themes of adventure, friendship, and personal growth, with Summer navigating through a land filled with talking animals, shape-shifters, and intriguing mysteries. The writing style is described as dark, philosophical, fun, and engaging, with a blend of YA and adult themes that appeal to a wide range of readers.

    Her mother loved her so much that she was not allowed to play outside where someone might grab her, nor go away on sleepovers where there might be an accident or suspicious food. She was not allowed t...

  4. #4

    Beren and Luthien by J.R.R. Tolkien
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    "Beren and Luthien" by J.R.R. Tolkien, edited by Christopher Tolkien, delves into the tale of Beren, a mortal man, and Lúthien, an immortal elf, one of the oldest and most central stories in Tolkien's mythology of Middle Earth. Christopher Tolkien has compiled various versions of the story, showcasing its evolution over time from inception to final form. includes prose, verse, and illustrations by Alan Lee, adding depth and atmosphere to the story. It is recommended for readers familiar with Tolkien's works, particularly "The Silmarillion," as it provides insight into the roots of stories like "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings."

    Two children had Tinwelint then, Dairon and Tinúviel, and Tinúviel was a maiden, and the most beautiful of all the maidens of the hidden Elves, and indeed few have been so fair, for her mother was a f...

  5. #5

    The Blizzard by Vladimir Sorokin
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    'The Blizzard' by Vladimir Sorokin follows Dr. Garin on a crucial mission to deliver vaccines to a town in Russia amidst a zombie outbreak. The journey, undertaken through a surreal and snowy landscape, is the focal point of the story rather than the zombie situation itself. The plot is filled with strange beings, machines, and unexpected events, creating a dream-like and fantastical atmosphere. The narrative weaves elements of magical realism, satire, and fantasy, set in a dystopian future Russia, where the characters face weirdness and grotesque scenarios typical of Sorokin's writing style.

    The journey through the blizzard serves as a metaphor for human struggles and the meaning of life. delves into themes of acceptance, mistakes, and the importance of living honestly. The relationship between Dr. Garin and Crouper, the sled driver, takes center stage, offering a deeper interpretation of the story. Despite the bizarre events and constant hardships faced by the characters, the book ultimately explores profound ideas about the human condition and the journey towards inner peace.

    “That’s what for, but all of ’em are out, and there ain’t a one to be found nowheres!” the stationmaster shouted, as though speaking to a deaf man. “Not ’less some miracle brings the mail horses in to...

  6. #6

    Tokyo Decadence by Ryu Murakami, Yuko Otake, Marco Fiocca
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    'Tokyo Decadence' by Ryu Murakami is a collection of 15 short stories that delve into the lives of Japan's outcasts and explore the darker aspects of human nature. The stories are interconnected, with characters bleeding into each other's narratives, akin to the structure of 'Pulp Fiction'. The book offers a disconcerting view of reality, delving into themes of graphic sex, violence, and societal taboos, all while showcasing the author's skillful writing style and character development.

    The narrative style in 'Tokyo Decadence' varies from sad and touching to darkly humorous, offering a gritty and matter-of-fact portrayal of sex, violence, and abuse. Many stories are presented from the female perspective, providing insight into the complexities of relationships and human behavior. The collection spans several decades of Ryu Murakami's work, showcasing his ability to craft engaging and thought-provoking stories that captivate readers with their depth and complexity.


  7. #7
    Hidden Bodies
    Book 2 in the series:You

    Hidden Bodies - You by Caroline Kepnes
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    Hidden Bodies by Caroline Kepnes is the sequel to the book You, following the story of Joe Goldberg, a charming yet disturbing sociopath. The novel picks up where the first book left off, with Joe moving to Los Angeles in pursuit of love after being betrayed by a woman named Amy. As Joe navigates through new relationships and dangerous situations, his dark past and murderous tendencies continue to haunt him, leading to unexpected twists and turns in the plot. The writing style is described as witty, sharp, and engaging, with a focus on satire and pop culture references that add depth to the narrative.

    In Hidden Bodies, readers are taken on a thrilling journey as they follow Joe's obsessive and manipulative behavior, his encounters with various characters in Los Angeles, and his quest for redemption amidst a backdrop of deceit and danger. The novel delves into the complexities of Joe's character, portraying him as both a villain and a sympathetic figure, creating a sense of tension and anticipation as the story unfolds. The book explores themes of love, obsession, and the consequences of one's actions, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its dark and suspenseful narrative.

    I buy violets for Amy. Not roses. Roses are for people who did something wrong. I have done everything right this time around. I’m a good boyfriend. I chose well. Amy Adam lives in the moment, not in ...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series You )

  8. #8
    Hope and Red
    Book 1 in the series:Empire of Storms

    Hope and Red - Empire of Storms by Jon Skovron
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    In the gritty world of the Empire of Storms, 'Hope and Red' introduces readers to two main characters, Hope and Red, who come from different backgrounds but share a common goal of seeking vengeance. Hope survives the massacre of her village by biomancers and trains with Vinchen warriors, while Red grows up on the streets under the guidance of a mentor, Sadie the Goat, to become a skilled thief. As their paths eventually cross, the story unfolds with a mix of kung fu, pirate adventures, and gangster elements, leading to a fast-paced and action-packed narrative. The writing style is engaging and smooth, with well-developed characters and a setting that blends dark, dirty, and dangerous elements with exciting and wonderful aspects.

    The novel delves into themes of revenge, survival, and character growth as Hope and Red navigate through a world filled with elite warriors, rogues, and formidable enemies. The story evolves through well-crafted character development rather than just plot-driven events, leading to a satisfying and entertaining read with unexpected twists and turns. The book also introduces unique jargon and slang that adds depth to the setting, making it an organic and immersive experience for readers.

    The village of Bleak Hope was a small community in the cold southern islands at the edge of the empire. Captain Toa was one of the few traders who came this far south, and even then, only once a year....

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